Why is the Accord called 'Yage'?
3 Answers
The Chinese name for the Accord is a phonetic translation, and it is a mid-size sedan under Honda. The engines of the Accord are as follows: Low-power version 1.5-liter turbocharged engine: The low-power version 1.5-liter turbocharged engine has 177 horsepower and a maximum torque of 230 Nm. The maximum power speed of this engine is 6000 rpm, and the maximum torque speed ranges from 1500 to 3000 rpm. This engine is equipped with VTEC technology and direct fuel injection, and uses an aluminum alloy cylinder head and block. It is paired with a CVT transmission. High-power version 1.5-liter turbocharged engine: The high-power version 1.5-liter turbocharged engine has 194 horsepower and a maximum torque of 260 Nm. The maximum power speed of this engine is 5500 rpm, and the maximum torque speed ranges from 1600 to 5000 rpm. This engine is equipped with VTEC technology and direct fuel injection, and uses an aluminum alloy cylinder head and block. It is paired with a CVT transmission. 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine: The 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine has 146 horsepower and a maximum torque of 175 Nm. The maximum power speed of this engine is 6200 rpm, and the maximum torque speed is 3500 rpm. This engine is equipped with i-VTEC technology and multi-point fuel injection, and uses an aluminum alloy cylinder head and block.
From a marketing strategy perspective, the name 'Accord' (Yage in Chinese) is thoughtfully crafted. Honda aimed to establish a reliable family car image in China, where 'Ya' (elegant) and 'Ge' (pavilion) form a catchy two-syllable name with positive connotations. The character 'Ya' aligns with traditional Chinese aesthetics, evoking sophistication, while 'Ge' suggests a private, comfortable space—perfectly matching the car's mid-range positioning. In China's auto market, a name must sound pleasant and be easily understood, making 'Accord' a natural selling point that implies the owner has refined taste. Having studied numerous brand names, I find Honda's decision astute: introduced in the 1990s, the name helped penetrate the market, securing consistent top sales rankings. It not only preserves the harmonious essence of 'Accord' but also integrates local cultural preferences, turning the name into a status symbol upon purchase.
The name 'Yage' for Honda Accord perfectly reflects the car's performance. I always drive this model, which emphasizes smooth and quiet driving. The 'Ya' in Yage highlights its elegant design, while 'Ge' subtly suggests a spacious interior akin to a small palace. The translation is a blend of phonetic and semantic adaptation—'Accord' sounds similar to 'Yage,' and its original meaning of 'harmony' is encapsulated within the Chinese cultural context. This naming approach allows Chinese users to immediately associate it with comfort and reliability, even elevating the car's perceived status above the original. After experiencing it, you'll find the name aligns seamlessly with the vehicle's actual features.
